If your wisdom teeth are causing crowding, pain, or recurrent infections, it’s completely normal to feel uneasy. Our goal is to help you feel safe, calm, and in control at every step. At Sleep Dentistry of Portland & Vancouver, we make wisdom tooth extraction calm and predictable with sedation options tailored to your comfort level and medical history, always delivered with a warm, non‑judgmental approach. From nitrous oxide to oral and IV sedation, and general anesthesia for select cases, we’ll help you relax, or sleep, through care while our team focuses on a gentle, efficient experience.
Looking for a dentist that puts you to sleep for extraction or wisdom tooth removal near me? You’re in the right place. We serve Portland, Vancouver West, and Vancouver East with neighborhood‑friendly access.
Do Your Wisdom Teeth Need to Come Out?
Wisdom teeth (third molars) often erupt between ages 17–25, but anatomy and timing vary. Removal may be recommended if you have:
- Pain, swelling, or recurrent infection around partially erupted gums.
- Crowding or shifting teeth, especially when orthodontic results are at risk.
- Impacted teeth pushing on neighboring molars or nerves.
- Cysts or damage to adjacent roots seen on imaging.
- Hygiene challenges that lead to decay or gum disease.
Not every third molar needs extraction. Our evaluation includes an exam, 3D imaging, and a discussion of risks, benefits, and timing so you can make an informed decision.
Sedation Options for Wisdom Tooth Removal (Tailored to You)
We match sedation to your anxiety level, the complexity of your case, and your health history.
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): Light relaxation that wears off quickly; great for straightforward extractions.
- Oral Sedation: Deeper calm in pill form; you’ll feel drowsy and relaxed throughout.
- IV Sedation: Adjustable, fast‑acting sedation ideal for impacted wisdom teeth or longer visits; many patients remember little of the procedure.
- General Anesthesia: You’re fully asleep and carefully monitored. Recommended for select cases based on clinical need and medical suitability.
Safety first. We review your medical history and medications, monitor your vitals continuously, and coordinate with your physician when appropriate. You’ll always know what’s happening and why.
3D Imaging for Safer, Smoother Extractions
- Wisdom teeth sit close to important structures like the inferior alveolar nerve and the maxillary sinus. Our 3D imaging maps these relationships in detail so we can:
- Evaluate root shape, depth, and proximity to nerves and sinuses.
- Plan the least invasive approach and anticipate challenges before treatment day.
- Reduce surprises, shorten chair time, and support a smoother recovery.
What IV Sedation Feels Like (and How We Keep You Safe)
- A small IV is placed so your clinician can administer medication and adjust your comfort quickly.
- You’ll feel deeply relaxed and may doze; many patients remember little of the visit.
- Your vitals are continuously monitored by trained professionals.
- You’ll need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you as the medication wears off.
What to Expect on Extraction Day
Bring a photo ID, your current medication list, and your escort. We’ll give you specific pre‑op instructions ahead of time; typically you’ll need to avoid food and drink for a period before IV sedation.
- Arrival & Comfort Check
We confirm your health history and consent, record baseline vitals, review the plan, and answer last‑minute questions. - Sedation & Local Anesthesia
A small IV may be placed (for IV sedation); your clinician adjusts medication to your comfort. We also numb the area with local anesthesia so you remain comfortable while relaxed or asleep. - Extraction
Using the treatment plan informed by 3D imaging, we gently remove the tooth/teeth. Stitches may be placed to support healing. - Recovery in Office
We monitor you until you’re alert and stable, review written instructions with you and your escort, and provide any prescriptions/supplies. - Ride Home & First 24 Hours
Rest, avoid driving and important decisions, start soft foods as directed, and call us with any concerns.
Insurance, Costs & Easy Financing
Your estimate depends on the number of teeth, impaction type, imaging, and the sedation level and duration. We’ll provide a transparent written plan before treatment and help you understand what your dental or medical insurance may cover based on medical necessity. No insurance? Ask about flexible monthly payments with Sunbit and CareCredit.
Recovery & Aftercare Tips
You’ll leave with printed, personalized instructions. In general, it will look similar to this:
Day of procedure
- Rest with your head elevated; no driving, alcohol, or major decisions for 24 hours after IV/GA.
- Bite on gauze 30–45 minutes; replace as needed. Mild oozing is normal.
- Use ice packs 20 minutes on/20 off for the first 24 hours.
- Avoid spitting, vigorous rinsing, or straws today. No smoking/vaping for at least 72 hours.
Eating & hygiene
- Start with cool, soft foods (yogurt, eggs, applesauce, mashed potatoes, smoothies without a straw).
- Brush gently, avoiding the surgical area. Begin gentle saltwater or prescribed rinses the day after meals, 2–3x/day.
Medications & activity
- Take pain medication as prescribed (starting before the numbness fully wears off can help).
- If antibiotics are prescribed, finish the course. Keep activity light for 48–72 hours.
When to call us
- Bleeding that doesn’t slow with gauze pressure.
- Fever >101°F, uncontrolled pain, persistent nausea/vomiting.
- Swelling that increases after day 3, foul taste/drainage, or increasing redness.
- Persistent numbness of the lip, chin, or tongue after local anesthetic should wear off.
We’ll schedule follow‑ups to check healing and remove sutures if placed.
Where We Offer Wisdom Tooth Removal
We’re nearby across the Portland–Vancouver metro, so you can choose the location that feels most comfortable:
- Portland, OR
- Vancouver, WA — West (convenient to Hazel Dell, Salmon Creek, Felida)
- Vancouver, WA — East (convenient to Cascade Park, Fishers Landing, Evergreen)
Choose the location that’s best for you or ask our team which site fits your case.
FAQs: Wisdom Tooth Removal with Sedation
Will I feel pain during the extraction?
You’ll be numb and relaxed. Some pressure and sounds are normal; we adjust your comfort as needed and provide medication for recovery.
Can I really sleep through wisdom tooth removal?
Many patients doze through IV sedation and remember little. For select cases, general anesthesia allows you to sleep through care.
How long is recovery?
Most patients return to routine activities in 2–3 days. Full healing occurs over several weeks.
What can I eat after surgery?
Begin with soft, cool foods; avoid straws, hard/crunchy foods, and hot liquids at first. We’ll give you a list and timeline.
What is a dry socket?
A dry socket occurs when the blood clot is dislodged. It causes noticeable pain and delayed healing. We’ll show you how to reduce the risk and can treat it promptly if it occurs.
Is IV sedation safe?
Yes when provided by trained professionals with appropriate monitoring. We review your health history and coordinate with your physician when needed.
Feel Comfortable About Wisdom Tooth Removal
Tell us what would make your visit easier, we’ll meet you there with the right sedation option, gentle technology, and a supportive team that listens.
